Correcting the Record About Social Security Direct Deposit and Telephone Services
Reading Time: 1 MinuteLast Updated: March 26, 2025
Recent reports in the media that Social Security plans to eliminate telephone services are inaccurate. SSA is increasing its protection for America’s seniors and other beneficiaries by eliminating the risk of fraud associated with changing bank account information by telephone.
SSA continuously investigates and analyzes potential threats to strengthen and secure our programs and protect people who receive benefits. Approximately 40 percent of Social Security direct deposit fraud is associated with someone calling SSA to change direct deposit bank information. SSA’s current protocol of simply asking identifying questions by telephone is no longer enough to prevent fraud.
If someone needs to change their bank account information on SSA’s record, they will need to either:
- Use two-factor authentication with SSA’s “my Social Security” service; or
- Visit a local Social Security office to prove their identity.
These methods align with most major banks.
All other SSA telephone services remain unchanged.
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Bob D.
Another common sense change to help stop fraud. I had no idea that 40 percent of SSC fraud was committed via phone. GREAT JOB !!
Frank
God Bless DOGE
Marian J.
fElon,1st of all, I don’t believe you as you have become just like DJT who doesn’t have a clue on how to tell the truth. I am almost 83 and barely get by with technology. I have elderly neighbors who don’t own laptops or smart phones. You ASSume everyone is tech savvy, we’re not. Wake up and see what damage you are doing to the people of this country!!! You are a selfish, spoiled brat!
Judy L.
I think he is trying to make sure SS will last. Getting rid of the fraud (people who should not receive SS) I’m sorry this might cause problems for some people.
Ely
first of all, you can walk into a local SSA office or have someone you have assigned power of attorney do it for you. this remaining the age-old method that will be familiar to everyone of every age.
secondly, save your political ranting and name-calling for people who care in a more apropos forum like reddit or mastodon.
THANKS! <3
Annie C.
I pray this new Administration do NOT interfere with our SS checks. I know two people think it’s an entitlement. I disagree wholeheartedly. It is money I’ve paid into since my first job at 16. I’m sure a lot of people did the same. If it’s a waste, give us all our money we paid into it, along with our employers. Closing the offices is a hardship on those who need one on one customer service.
Judy L.
The office will still be open.
jo l.
DOGE is a complete disaster.
Judy L.
Oh I’m so grateful for Elon, finally someone smart enough to get this job done. Every President back to Clinton has talked about doing this. It’s about time we cut the waste.
Nora
Say that to Frank (from Frank comment above) said “God bless DOGE.
FS
If this, in fact, is WHY you’re eliminating/reducing phone service, then WHY ON EARTH would you be laying off so many workers and SITES, that would need to now be responsible for helping people in person. You are making it more and more difficult for people to access THEIR earned benefits.
Nora
Actually, the one who said there is a fraud via telephone was the FRAUD. Who said there is fraud via telephone? HOW? Do you really believed that? Do they have your password?
Sandra S.
I have been waiting for a promised call for seven hours. Finally went to bed. Called this morning and waited hours on hold, and when an agent finally came on, the call dropped. I would’ve thought she would call me back. So now I’m again waiting for hours. I need to have my questions answered!
DORIS T.
I AM WORNDERING WAY SSA IS CONTACING ME
Kim
I am thankful for this new administration
cutting expenses by getting rid of waste, fraud & abuse. I don’t want to worry about thief calling & changing my banking info with my knowledge. I live on a tight budget, I expect my government to do the same.
BWN
When many regional offices are closed, as planned, how are computer-less older adults supposed to communicate with SS? Please do not resort to some form of privatization of this important US service!
Social Security ran like a clock and very efficiently as far as administrative overhead. There is no need to cut funding, and the motives are suspicious. SS cannot be run like a 401k!
Half of American voters did not vote for this, and their wishes need to be respected.
Deborah
Why are walk-in visits, no longer available? I had a scheduled telephone appointment, and no one ever called. I attempted to walk-in and wasn’t allowed. The security guard said call and schedule an appointment. I told that why I was there. Now, I have a appointment 1 1/2 months away. In the meantime, my client can’t get medical care, and his information is updated.
C.B.
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